First it was a cd with 481 repeat patterns for needlepoint.

Now it’s a book!  Everything has it’s day….

Have you ever had an area of a canvas where you want a little extra detail but a textured stitch is too much.  What about a stripe? That could work.  What about a pattern of dots.  That has possibilities.

Backgrounds CD Volume One was conceived as a source of inspiration.  Inspiration for looking at patterns and repeats that can be used in a needlepoint project.  Look at the area you wish to fill.  A large area can handle a larger repeat.  A small area needs a smaller repeat.

Here’s a tiny project — a Wooly Dreams Design canvas that had a plain white background.  Two shades of Silk Serica and a 6 x 6 repeat of stitches and suddenly the background is a little richer and more interesting.

Here’s the stitch I used.

Two different tones as I used on the cat’s background will give you a subtle design.  Two different colors will give you a bold pattern.

Another fun idea is to work with two different finishes in the same color.  One matte, one shiny – instant brocade!

Some of the patterns in the book have alternatives for those who don’t love Tent Stitch or who want to add a little more texture.  Part of the pattern is worked in Long Stitches.

Now, several years and many requests later the CD is available as a real book.  481 repeat patterns each on their own page.  All patterns are sorted by size of repeat.  The book will be back from the printer on Friday so if you want a copy, let us know. CDs are still available if you prefer the Green version.